Kamala Harris Picks Tim Walz As Running Mate

Kamala Harris has picked Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, as her vice-presidential nominee, according to US media reports.

The choice of Walz, a 60-year-old veteran and former teacher, was made in an effort to attract rural, white voters. The decision was made public in media reports, with campaign officials refraining from commenting before the official announcement was expected.

Walz, who served in the U.S. House of Representatives for 12 years before becoming governor in 2018, has advocated a progressive agenda including free school meals, climate change goals, tax cuts for the middle class, and expanded paid leave. Despite his progressive stance, he has also displayed conservative inclinations, especially during his time in Congress, where he supported agricultural interests and gun rights.

Kamala Harris, the daughter of immigrants from Jamaica and India, chose Walz to bolster her appeal in crucial Midwestern states. These states are essential for winning the November 5 election, as they are expected to play a significant role in deciding the outcome. Walz’s ability to connect with rural, white voters, who have leaned towards Donald Trump in recent elections, is seen as a strategic advantage for Harris.

Walz was initially approached for the role but expressed concerns about the commitment required. He proposed filming his scenes within 10 days, rather than the month originally requested, due to his academic commitments. The production company, unable to meet his financial demands or adjust the timeline, rejected his proposal. Subsequently, Ramsey Nouah was brought in to complete the role in the same 10-day period Walz had suggested, which surprised Van Vicker.

Harris’s campaign has been energized by her recent nomination, following President Joe Biden’s exit from the race. The campaign has raised significant funds and revitalized the race against Trump. Walz’s extensive National Guard service and his relatable public persona are hoped to attract undecided voters.

Walz’s selection was a strategic move to counter Trump and his running mate JD Vance, a fellow military veteran from the Midwest. Walz has employed a distinctive approach in his attacks on Trump and Vance, labeling them as “weird” and criticizing their claims of understanding the middle class. This approach has resonated with younger voters and has been endorsed by activists.

Political science professor Ryan Dawkins described Walz as a “unicorn,” praising his ability to connect with rural voters and his capacity to convey Harris’s message to both traditional Democratic supporters and those previously disengaged. Despite his progressive policies as governor, Walz’s centrist record during his congressional career, including his support for farmers and military veterans, and his changing positions on gun control, have left him vulnerable to Republican critiques.

Walz’s response to such critiques includes defending his record on education, healthcare, and public safety. His tenure as governor has included significant legislative achievements and a focus on social justice issues, highlighted by his handling of the George Floyd case and his support from labor unions.

Walz and Harris are set to appear together at a campaign event in Philadelphia later on Tuesday and will speak at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago from August 19 to 22, where their ticket will be formally endorsed.

This selection of Tim Walz as Kamala Harris’s running mate is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the Democratic ticket’s appeal in key battleground states and enhance its chances in the upcoming election.

Source: BBC